I use both methods but I set up an above ground pool and use a 3"trash pump to suck the muck from the bottom pump it to the pool and let it settle then drain the clear water back to my rearing pond. Then I open a valve on a 4" pipe that goes to a pit where I dump horse manure and compost. Let it work then use it in the garden and orchard great stuff. I have one device 10' long with holes drilled in it and a piece of flat bar behind it attached to the flexible hose.also a t shaped pipe with holes in the bottom of the t. I also have a jet ski with a 45 degree bend on the jet pointed down. It will push the surface water down to the bottom of my 30' deep pond.
